Are Bert and Ernie Coming Out as Gay?

On the latest issue of The New Yorker Magazine, Sesame Street’s Bert and Ernie can be seen cuddled up on the couch watching the Supreme Court’s ruling that the Defense of Marriage Act is unconstitutional.

The picture titled “Moment of Joy” was illustrated by Jack Hunter, an Arizona based artist.

Sesame Street has not officially commented on the cover but the company has always insisted the characters are best friends.

What do you think about the image? Should Bert and Ernie become gay characters?